Malins Group

The Malins group develops synthetic tools for small molecule, peptide and protein synthesis, including for applications in chemical biology and drug discovery.

label Research theme

Catalysis

Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Development

Organic chemistry

domain Division

Synthesis

About

Our research lies at the interface of organic chemistry and chemical biology. We aim to develop versatile new synthetic tools for small molecule synthesis, protein bioconjugation, and the design of peptide-based therapeutics. By expanding the toolbox of practical methods and reagents for the direct modification of complex biomolecules, we seek to understand their role in mediating biological processes as well as enhance their therapeutic potential.

Our group website.

Projects

Spring-Loaded Electrophiles: Powerful Tools for Organic Synthesis

This project will explore designer bicyclobutanes and the strained molecule “propellane” in alkylation, radical addition and cycloaddition chemistry, including for the modification of peptides and bioactive small molecules.

Theme

Organic chemistry

Student intake

Open for Honours, Master, PhD, Summer scholar students

Status

Potential

Accessing Designer Peptides Using Electro-Organic Synthesis

This project will explore additional opportunities for the efficient electrochemical modification of peptides, including through the use of novel “electrochemically-active” amino acids.

Theme

Catalysis, Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Development, Organic chemistry

Student intake

Open for Honours, Master, PhD, Summer scholar students

Status

Potential

Synthesis of Peptide Natural Products as Next-Generation Drug Leads

The Malins group is interested in several anti-cancer, antimalarial, and antibiotic peptides. 2023-2024 projects in this space will involve the chemical synthesis, structural modification, and biological evaluation of peptide leads as next-generation therapies.